Kashmiri Cleric Criticizes Elected Leaders' Silence on Religious Restrictions

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, a prominent religious figure in Kashmir, has voiced his concerns regarding the ongoing restrictions on religious practices in the region, particularly those affecting Eid prayers. He criticized the silence of elected officials amid what he calls the abnormal normalization of such restrictions.

Addressing congregants at Jamia Masjid, he highlighted the persistent ban on Eid prayers at key religious sites like Eidgah and Jamia Masjid for the past eight years. He warned that continued silence and enforcement risk setting a precedent for future generations, eroding long-standing religious traditions.

Farooq stressed the urgent need for political leaders to defend the religious rights and institutions of those who elected them. He urged them to speak out against these restrictions as maintaining silence amounts to neglecting their duties.

(With inputs from agencies.)